A moment in your life shouldn’t define the rest of your life. If you're facing felony charges in Putnam County, the stakes couldn't be higher. A felony conviction can change your life by impacting your job, your family, your future, and your freedom.
At the Law Office of Douglas K. Dennis, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be, and we’re here to help.
As an experienced felony attorney in Putnam County, Douglas K. Dennis offers aggressive, skilled legal defense to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Whether you've been charged with a Class A felony or a lower-level offense, you deserve a knowledgeable advocate in your corner.
Contact us today at (931) 528-3684 for a free consultation.
What Is a Felony?
In Tennessee, a felony is a serious federal criminal offense punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies are more severe than misdemeanors and carry long-term consequences beyond just jail time. These restrictions of your rights include loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment, and restrictions on owning firearms.
Common felony charges include:
- Drug trafficking or distribution
- Aggravated assault
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Homicide
- Sexual offenses
- White-collar crimes (e.g., fraud, embezzlement)
Felony vs. Misdemeanor
Misdemeanors are considered less severe and typically result in penalties such as fines, probation, or jail time of less than one year in a county prison. Felonies, on the other hand, are punishable by state prison sentences and much harsher fines.
While both are criminal offenses, felony convictions usually come with more severe collateral consequences including long-term damage to your reputation and future opportunities.
Types of Felony Offenses in Tennessee
Felony offenses in Tennessee range from violent crimes to non-violent infractions. The state categorizes felonies into five main classes, based on the severity of the offense and the associated penalties.
Some examples of felony offenses include:
- Aggravated burglary
- Vehicular homicide
- Identity theft
- Possession with intent to sell drugs
- Aggravated sexual battery
- Felony DUI
- High dollar white collar crime
Each case is unique, and the right defense depends on the facts, evidence, and circumstances. An experienced felony lawyer can evaluate your situation and build a strong legal strategy.
Penalties for Felony Convictions in Tennessee
Felony convictions in Tennessee can carry penalties including:
- Prison time (ranging from 1 year to life)
- Fines up to $50,000
- Mandatory probation or parole
- Loss of civil rights (voting, firearms, etc.)
- Permanent criminal record
- Difficulty obtaining housing or employment
The exact penalty depends on the felony class, prior convictions, aggravating factors, and the discretion of the court. A big factor will be your choice of legal representation. The right criminal defense lawyer can help minimize the damage of a felony conviction.
Felony Classes in Tennessee
Tennessee law divides felonies into five categories: Class A, B, C, D, and E. Each class reflects the seriousness of the crime and the possible sentence upon conviction.
Class A Felony
- Most serious level
- Penalties: 15 to 60 years in prison, fines up to $50,000
- Examples: First-degree murder, aggravated rape
Class B Felony
- Penalties: 8 to 30 years in prison, fines up to $25,000
- Examples: Aggravated robbery, drug trafficking
Class C Felony
- Penalties: 3 to 15 years in prison, fines up to $10,000
- Examples: Theft over $10,000, aggravated assault
Class D Felony
- Penalties: 2 to 12 years in prison, fines up to $5,000
- Examples: Burglary, reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon
Class E Felony
- Least severe felony class
- Penalties: 1 to 6 years in prison, fines up to $3,000
- Examples: Forgery, felony evading arrest
Can You Get a Felony Expunged in Tennessee?
In some cases, felony expungement may be possible in Tennessee. If your charge was dismissed, you were acquitted, or you were convicted of an eligible non-violent felony and have completed your sentence and waiting period, you may be able to clear your record.
However, not all felonies qualify. A Putnam County felony attorney can help determine if your case meets the legal criteria and guide you through the expungement process.
How Long Does a Felony Stay on Your Record?
Unless your record is expunged, a felony stays on your record for life. This can affect your ability to:
- Get hired for certain jobs
- Qualify for housing
- Receive student loans
- Possess firearms
- Travel internationally
- Vote
Early legal intervention is critical. The sooner you involve a qualified criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of minimizing these long-term impacts.
Speak with a Putnam County Felony Lawyer Today
Facing a felony charge is not something you should handle alone. The consequences are too serious to leave your future to chance. At the Law Office of Douglas K. Dennis, we are committed to fighting for your rights, protecting your record, and guiding you through the criminal justice system.
With extensive experience defending clients in Cookeville and throughout Putnam County, we provide aggressive, personalized legal representation tailored to your case.
Plant your trust in us and harvest the rewards of the right legal representation.
Call us today at (931) 528-3684 or contact us online for a free consultation.
